Heavy metals in Lindt chocolates raise health concerns: How they affect your health

Getting your hands on a Lindt chocolate bar is nothing short of a luxury. The Swiss chocolatier that offers an array of delectable offerings, has long been synonymous with its intricately designed delicious, and decadent chocolates. They have been credited with pioneering the conching process that gave their chocolate its smooth and creamy texture. However, despite its flawless reputation for decades, Lindt is embroiled in legal trouble after a Consumer Reports study revealed concerns about levels of lead and cadmium in its products.
The Consumer Reports study released in 2022 tested several dark chocolate brands and found alarming levels of heavy metals in Lindt’s products. Lindt’s Excellence Dark Chocolate 70% Cocoa contained 116% of the recommended cadmium limit and 48% of the lead limit. Meanwhile, its Excellence Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa contained 166% of the lead limit and 80% of the cadmium limit. This has sparked debate about the safety of one of the world’s most beloved treats.

While Lindt has defended itself, saying that “lead and cadmium are unavoidable in the food supply,” and that the trace amounts in its chocolate are within regulatory limits, this has still raised concerns among consumers and health experts, leading to a class-action lawsuit and increasing scrutiny of the chocolate industry’s practices regarding heavy metal contamination.

According to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, dark chocolates and similar cocoa products are contaminated with lead and cadmium, two neurotoxic metals that are linked to cancer, chronic disease, or reproductive and developmental issues, especially in kids.

Lead, cadmium and other heavy metals are natural elements in the soil and can’t be avoided. Some crop fields, however, may have more toxic levels than others. However, despite growing on land with fewer pesticides and other contaminants, organic versions of dark chocolate had some of the highest levels, according to this study

While it’s true that lead and cadmium occur naturally in the environment, their accumulation in food products, including chocolate, can pose serious health risks if consumed in significant amounts over time.
Here’s what you need to know about the impact of these heavy metals on your health and how to enjoy chocolate safely.

Poses risk to immune system

Your favourite dark chocolate may be silently lowering your immunity. Lead and cadmium beyond permissible limits can damage the immune system in humans and animals, says the Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering study. These two toxic elements affect innate and adaptive (cellular and humoral) immune responses, and cytokine production. Cadmium induces oxidative stress by generating ROS, through which it exerts its toxicity.

Increased risk of heart disease and stroke

Dark chocolates that are high in lead and cadmium can increase risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
According to American Heart Association, chronic exposure to low or moderate levels of three contaminant metals — lead, cadmium and arsenic can increase risk of heart diseases including coronary artery disease, stroke and peripheral artery disease. Gervasio A. Lamas, M.D., FAHA, chair of the statement writing group and chairman of medicine and chief of the Columbia University Division of Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida cites large population studies and says even low-level exposure to contaminant metals contributes to the burden of cardiovascular disease, especially heart attacks, stroke, disease of the arteries to the legs and premature death from cardiac causes.

Increased risk of cancer

Lead and cadmium, classified as carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly due to their ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). This process can damage cellular structures and DNA, contributing to cancer development. Studies have shown that intake of these metals through contaminated food and water can increase cancer mortality, with some studies revealing up to a three-fold increase in risk. The metals’ strong affinity for sulfur-containing biomolecules, as well as their ability to displace essential oligo-metals, may also play a role in promoting carcinogenesis.

Cognitive and developmental issues

According to journal Taylor and Francis, long-term exposure to cadmium can cause cognitive decline due to its neurotoxicity. Cadmium induces neuronal cell apoptosis, increases blood-brain barrier permeability, and triggers oxidative stress, which disrupts normal brain function. This can result in cognitive decline, particularly in the elderly, and may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Kidney damage and weakened bones

Cadmium, when consumed consistently, accumulates in the kidneys over time. This can lead to chronic kidney damage, reduced filtration efficiency, and long-term health complications. High levels of cadmium are linked to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, particularly in older adults.

How to avoid risks from heavy metals in chocolates

Choose chocolates with low cacao content as cadmium levels tend to rise with higher cacao content. Choosing chocolates with less than 70% cacao can help reduce exposure.
Enjoy dark chocolate as an exception rather than a regular affair. Instead of indulging daily, relish dark chocolate occasionally to prevent heavy metals from accumulating in your body.
Alternate between dark chocolate and other healthier snacks to avoid consistent exposure from a single source.
Organic chocolates can contain similar levels of heavy metals as non-organic varieties. Focus on reputable brands rather than just labels.
(Picture courtesy: Pixabay)